If you think that there is something wrong with your dog, depending on the signs and symptoms, it could be leishmaniasis. This is a parasite, and it might even be true that your dog doesn’t even exhibit any signs or symptoms in the beginning, which could be a problem. In this article, we’re going to be looking at leishmaniasis in dogs, some of the signs and symptoms that you should look out for, and some of the treatments. Keep reading if you want to find out more.
Symptoms of Leishmaniasis In Dogs
It is common that your dog does not exhibit signs of having this parasite for the first 2-4 months of having it. You’ve got to look out for a number of symptoms that include but are not limited to: loss of weight, bald patches, sores on the skin, ulcers, peeling, conjunctivitis, blindness, inflammation, nasal discharge and swelling. Some of the other symptoms that they might experience, but you won’t be able to see are muscle atrophy and organ failure, as well as heart attacks.
Of course, it’s not always the case that because your dog has one or two of these symptoms that they have leishmaniasis, but it is always better to book your dog into your vet to be sure.
Treatments of dog Leishmaniasis
It is difficult to find a solution to treat leishmaniasis in dogs that doesn’t attack the kidneys. There are certain medications that the vet can prescribe to see if this will help. It is important to understand that this will never go away entirely, and your dog will likely be on tablets for the rest of their life in order to keep the infection at bay.
Your dog will be monitored closely for the rest of their life in order to check for any signs of active infection. The quicker that you get your dog to the vet, the better the prognosis will be. While it isn’t possible to get rid of leishmaniasis, it is possible to control it. However, if you wait too long and the infection gets worse, then your dog could end up in kidney failure. That’s why it is so essential that you seek help as soon as possible.
Hot to prevent It
There is no way to prevent your dog from getting leishmaniasis other than avoiding areas where it is known to be. Don’t take your dog to any area of the world where leishmaniasis is found, and if another dog that you know is suspected of having it, keep your dog away from them. It is highly contagious for dogs, so if you want to prevent yours from getting it, then we suggest staying away entirely. It is important to note that you cannot catch leishmaniasis from your dog, so even if your little friend does get it, you are completely safe.
We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now have a better understanding about leishmaniasis in dogs, what to look out for and what can be done once there is a diagnosis.
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